“Clay is not his best surface,” Boris Becker unsure of Jannik Sinner’s chances to win Roland Garros

Jannik Sinner has currently reached the third round of the 2024 French Open.

“Clay is not his best surface,” Boris Becker unsure of Jannik Sinner’s chances to win Roland Garros

Boris Becker and Jannik Sinner (Images via Imago)

Jannik Sinner has dominated the first quarter of the year. The Italian continued his early strides in the year to the clay season. However, despite being better than last season, he is yet to win any clay title. His recent recovery from a hip injury and clay form has led German legend Boris Becker to believe he is not a favorite to win the French Open.

The 22-year-old won his opening Roland Garros match after missing the Italian Open and withdrawing from the Madrid Open due to a hip injury. He beat American Chris Eubanks without breaking much sweat – 6−3, 6–3, 6–4. He remains undefeated in the Grand Slam this season having won the Australian Open in January.

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Besides that, Sinner last won a clay title at Umag in 2022. The Italian star lost thrice winning eight in the clay season last year. This season, he has been in a better form but that hasn’t gotten him a title on clay. He was close to winning the Monte Carlo Open but lost to eventual champion Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semifinals.

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On paper, Jannik Sinner is among the favorites to win the French Open despite being known for performing better on hardcourt surfaces. Boris Becker revealed that despite his good form this season, he doesn’t count him as a favorite. 

Overall, clay is not, for the moment, his best surface. On clay, he has not yet won any major tournaments. At Roland Garros last year, Sinner lost in the second round to Daniel Altmaier and we don't know if he is in good shape at the moment. In Grand Slam, you don't win a match easily and quickly by serving 25 aces. So it will be difficult for him.
Boris Becker said via Eurosport

Jannik Sinner then went on to beat fan favorite Richard Gasquet in the second round. Like Eubanks, the Frenchman was also beaten in straight sets.

Jannik Sinner confirms relationship with Anna Kalinskaya after being rumored to be together

Jannik Sinner has confirmed his relationship with Russian WTA star Anna Kalinskaya, after rumors of them being together. The new tennis couple were seen together on several occasions in Paris which raised the suspicion.

However, despite the confirmation from Sinner, he still wants to keep it private after both recorded first-round victories at the French Open.

I don’t like to talk about my private life much, but yes, Anna and I are dating. But we keep everything very confidential. You know me: I won't talk more than that.
Jannik Sinner said (H/T: Ubitennis)
Jannik Sinner and Anna Kalinskaya
Jannik Sinner and Anna Kalinskaya (Via Imago)

Sinner defeated Richard Gasquet in three sets to book a place in the third round. On the other hand, Kalinskaya fought hard to beat Strasbourg Open quarterfinalist Clara Burel 7-6, 7-5 to reach the second round of the Roland Garros.

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